PNP: Arrest of loiterers based on local law; no human rights violated

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) will release this week guidelines in arresting loiterers who violate city ordinances.

The PNP explained that the guidelines would help iron out its decision to push through with arresting night-time idlers.

PNP chief PDG. Oscar Albayalde noted that the police want to avoid violating the rights of the public.

Albayalde clarified that authorities only arrest individuals who violate ordinances such as smoking and drinking in public; going around shirtless in the streets; catcalling and urinating in public places.

He said that these violations are the usual cause of turmoil and crime in the streets.

(Oftentimes, when people who drink on sidewalks get intoxicated, they would pick on random pedestrians or harass passing ladies and end up causing a fight. That’s what we are trying to avoid. So this is for the safety of everybody.)

Since Thursday, almost 3,000 loiterers have already been arrested.

Albayalde also called on the public to report complaints against cops to the nearest police station.

Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque said that loiterers can also file complaints should they experience harassment from police.